In a world where smartphones are almost like an extension of our hands, it’s fascinating to see how technology can do more than just entertain us—it can help us live healthier lives! A study by researchers Rita Orji and Karyn Moffatt dives deep into the role of persuasive technology in improving health and wellness. Here’s what they found and why it matters.
What is Persuasive Technology?
Think of persuasive technology (PT) as digital tools designed to encourage good habits and discourage unhealthy ones. From fitness apps tracking your steps to games teaching kids about healthy eating, these technologies are built to nudge you toward making better choices.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
The study analyzed 85 research works over 16 years, and here are some highlights:
- 92% of these technologies had at least some positive impact, helping people improve their habits.
- The most successful tools targeted behaviors like healthy eating (91% success), dental health (100% success) and sexual behavior (100% success).
- Surprisingly, tools aimed at smoking cessation and substance abuse were less effective, with only partially positive results.
These numbers show that PT works—but not all areas of health are equally easy to influence.
What Makes These Tools Work?
The study identified some key strategies that make persuasive technology effective:
- Tracking & Monitoring: Think of fitness apps that show your step count or calorie intake. This was the most common feature across successful tools.
- Feedback Loops: Apps that send reminders or give you progress updates keep you motivated.
- Social Support: Sharing your goals or achievements with friends through apps helps build accountability.
- Gamification: Turning healthy habits into a game—like earning points for completing workouts—makes the process fun!
Room for Improvement
While these tools are promising, there’s still work to be done:
- Many tools don’t use well-researched behavioral theories, which could make them even more effective.
- Few studies looked at how these tools work long-term—are people still using them and benefiting after a year or more?
Why Does This Matter?
The potential here is huge. Imagine using your phone not just for fun or work, but to prevent illnesses, stick to a diet, or even manage chronic conditions. With 92% effectiveness, persuasive technology could transform how we think about healthcare—making it proactive, personalized, and fun.
The Bottom Line
Technology is already a big part of our lives, and studies like this show how it can be a force for good. Whether it’s an app, a game, or a wearable device, persuasive technology is helping people take small steps toward better health—and proving that those small steps can add up to big changes.
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Scientific Publication Source: Orji, R. and Moffatt, K., 2018. Persuasive technology for health and wellness: State-of-the-art and emerging trends. Health informatics journal, 24(1), pp.66-91. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1460458216650979
